Subject Head: Natural Sciences

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 96,000 - 138,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Pension fund contributions

Leadership development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Subject Head for Natural Sciences at a Queenstown-based secondary school. You will oversee Biology, Physical Sciences and General Science, drive curriculum development, mentor a team of educators, and ensure high-quality teaching and learning across the department.

The role requires a strong leadership presence, deep knowledge of the South African National Curriculum, and excellent communication.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
• PGCE or equivalent teaching qualification.
• 7+ years teaching Natural Sciences at secondary school.
• Leadership/Head of Department experience is desirable.
• Strong knowledge of South African National Curriculum for Natural Sciences.
• Excellent pedagogical and classroom management skills.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Natural Sciences department including curriculum planning, implementation, and evaluation.
• Ensure delivery of high-quality teaching in Biology, Physical Sciences and General Science.
• Develop and mentor a team of Natural Sciences educators with professional development and performance feedback.
• Oversee development and administration of departmental assessments and examinations.
• Promote innovative teaching methods and effective use of science resources and laboratories.
• Align curriculum with national standards and examination requirements.
• Manage departmental budget and resources.
• Foster inquiry, critical thinking and scientific exploration among students.

Skills

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in science

PGCE or equivalent

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a reputable secondary school in Queenstown, Eastern Cape , is seeking an experienced and dynamic Subject Head for Natural Sciences . This critical on-site leadership role involves overseeing the Natural Sciences department, including Biology, Physical Sciences, and General Science. You will be responsible for curriculum development, ensuring high-quality teaching and learning, mentoring a team of science educators, and driving academic excellence within the department. The ideal candidate will possess strong subject matter expertise, excellent leadership qualities, and a passion for science education. This is a significant opportunity to shape science education in Queenstown .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Natural Sciences department, including curriculum planning, implementation, and evaluation.
• Ensure the delivery of high-quality teaching and learning experiences in Biology, Physical Sciences, and General Science.
• Develop and mentor a team of Natural Sciences educators, providing professional development and performance feedback.
• Oversee the development and administration of departmental assessments and examinations.
• Promote innovative teaching methodologies and the effective use of science resources and laboratory facilities.
• Ensure alignment of the curriculum with national educational standards and examination requirements.
• Manage the departmental budget and resources effectively.
• Foster a culture of inquiry, critical thinking, and scientific exploration among students.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in a relevant science field (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Physics), accompanied by a Post-Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) or equivalent teaching qualification.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience teaching Natural Sciences at the secondary school level.
• Proven experience in a leadership or head of department role is highly desirable.
• Deep understanding of the South African National Curriculum requirements for Natural Sciences.
• Excellent pedagogical and classroom management skills.
• Strong organizational, planning, and administrative abilities.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• A commitment to fostering student interest and achievement in the sciences.

Benefits

• This position offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with comprehensive benefits including medical aid and pension fund contributions.
• Our client provides a supportive environment with opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.
• Join a dedicated educational community in Queenstown, Eastern Cape , and play a key role in inspiring the next generation of scientists.